ICC World Cup: What makes India one of the favorites?
What's the story
The next two months will be crucial for cricketing nations as they gear up for the ICC World Cup 2019, starting May 30 onwards in England and Wales. Ten nations are set to take part in the World Cup. India are one of the favorites, this time around, to clinch the coveted title. Here we analyze India's likely playing XI for the World Cup.
Information
India have some interesting pool of players to select from
India have some interesting set of players to select from. One will get a clearer picture of how the 15-man squad will shape up in the coming months. But, even now, one has the idea about what the main structure will look like.
Top order
India's top three in batting lead the show
Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan are set to open the innings. The two cricketers know each other well and understand the flow. India are well set here with both Rohit and Dhawan enjoying the form of their lives. Their consistency could help India. Virat Kohli is India's fulcrum. He has been setting the example since a long time about how to win important matches
Middle order
India's middle order has some experience names
India have finally found Ambati Rayudu as their preferred number four in batting. Rayudu's versatility would benefit the unit. He can play the role of an anchor. MS Dhoni's form is pretty worrisome at the moment. He will have to be among the runs in 12 ODIs, India play ahead of World Cup. Kedar Jadhav is useful at number six and has match-winning credentials.
Number 7 and 8
India's all-round options and lead spinner Kuldeep
Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are the two all-rounders. It will depend on conditions on who gets the nod in the starting XI. Both have the qualities to turn the tide and are excellent fielders. Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is the leading spinner. He has been in tremendous form and is India's trump card. The left-arm spinner can get India the wickets at crucial moments.
Pacers
India's pace bowling has a decent touch of solidity
Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are two genuine pace options and will be expected to bring in the stability. Both are superb upfront and at the death as well. The last spot could go to Khaleel Ahmed. He has the potential and promise to shine. Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal and KL Rahul are likely to fill in the remaining sports in the 15-man squad.